Finding Your Tribe

A strong support network is integral to your health and wellbeing. These people are like-minded souls who accept, support and love you exactly as you are. Yet to meet them? Heres how to find your tribe.

- Emma Nuttall (Higginson)

We all strive to belong and feel accepted. Secure attachment is a basic human need from an early age and many of us possess an intrinsic tribal mentality inherited from our ancestors. Safety in numbers provided protection from danger, and pooled resources assisted in times of scarcity, while shared knowledge increased the chance of survival.

The importance of social interaction with other people for human cognition, development and wellbeing has long been recognised. Social connection promotes happiness, and surrounding yourself with individuals who show you genuine care and understanding can encourage you to live your best life.

Social connection has also been linked to longevity. Okinawa in Japan is a well-known and researched region of the world where people commonly live active, healthy lives past the age of 100. One of the factors attributed to the health and longevity of Okinawan residents is the tradition of moai. A moai is a group of people who meet regularly to support each other’s social, emotional and sometimes even financial needs.

In times of immense stress, grief or trauma, having a strong support network to rely on provides immense comfort and security. Suffering, loss and failure are all part of the human experience. It’s comforting to know that similar experiences are shared by others. You are not alone and do not have to be alone in your struggles. At the same time, greater happiness can be derived when you share your triumphs and celebrate your wins with the people around you.